Dix will spend five days living on only $1.50 worth of food a day to raise money for UNICEF through the Live Below the Line Campaign. The idea is for Dix to be one of thousands around the world living below the poverty line from April 28 through May 2.

According to the World Bank, an estimated 1.4 billion people on earth live below the extreme global poverty level, which is the equivalent of $1.50 per day in the United States.

“I am doing this to raise awareness about poverty around the globe,” she said, adding that it’s also personal. “I’m doing it for me, for things I believe in.”

Dix, 18, of Palmyra, learned about the campaign online from “Avengers” star Tom Hiddleston, who was also taking part in the challenge. She said she researched the campaign and it seemed “doable.” More importantly, it’s a cause she believes in.

“Working with third world countries, and making the world a better place overall, is what I want to spend the rest of my life doing,” Dix said. “Interning with the United Nations Association of Rochester has opened my eyes and made me want to do more good in the world. As of now, I can only do so much to change the world.”

Dix plans to attend Monmouth University in New Jersey next year to major in political science with a concentration in international relations. Right now, her internship with the UN Association of Rochester has put her on the right track to helping others.

As part of her internship, Dix teaches English to refugees. For many of these people, Dix said living below the poverty line is part of everyday life. Many of them rely on donations for their basic survival.

Dix admits she’s not sure what to expect, but figures she will be eating a lot of grains, rice and bananas. Before she begins, Dix said she will head to Walmart and purchase $7.50 of food. She will then ration that food out to live on for five days.

“How much food that is for one day I honestly don’t know,” she said. “I know it’s very little.”

Dix’s efforts will be rewarded with the money she raises and donates to UNICEF. She has already surpassed her goal of $250, reaching over $300. During her journey living below the line, Dix will journal her experience in her blog, take pictures and video to share with others. To follow Dix or to make to a donation to her cause, visit www.livebelowtheline.com/me/katharinemd.